Novel November is upon us, and there’s no shortage of writing challenges to join this time of year. If writing an entire book in 30 days feels overwhelming, don’t fret. See Jane Write has a challenge that’s designed to help you create a sustainable writing practice to carry you through the rest of this year into the next.
I must admit that writing challenges are my jam! (If you’re a longtime See Jane Write reader, you might remember the days of #BlogLikeCrazy!) Why do I love writing challenges so much? Because they can spark creativity, consistency and community —three things every writer needs to succeed.
The See Jane Write November Writing Challenge starts November 1. We’re writing every day for 30 days. The goal is to write at least 300 words a day, but you can opt for 200 if life is especially busy right now or 500 if you want to push yourself a bit more. You can also opt to journal for 15 minutes each day. Get more details and sign up here.
Here are a few key benefits of joining a writing challenge—and some tips to help you stick with it from day one to day thirty.
The Benefits of a Writing Challenge
Spark creativity.
When you write daily, new ideas start to flow. You might begin the challenge working on one project and end up discovering an entirely new story, essay, or poem you didn’t even know was waiting inside you.
Build consistency and confidence.
Writing every day—even if you’re only writing 200 words — helps you silence your inner critic and find your flow. The more you write, the easier it becomes to get words on the page without overthinking every sentence.
Beat procrastination.
A daily challenge gives you a clear goal and deadline, so you’re less likely to put writing off for “someday.” You ditch the excuses and commit to showing up for your writing (and yourself).
Find community and accountability.
Writing can feel lonely—but it doesn’t have to be. Joining a writing challenge connects you with others who share your goals. Encouragement and accountability go a long way in helping you keep the streak alive. That’s why throughout the See Jane Write November Writing Challenge, we will be cheering one another along over in the See Jane Write Network Facebook group.
See real progress.
By the end of 30 days, you’ll have a body of work you can build on—whether that’s journal entries, blog post drafts, short essays for your newsletter, or chapters for a book. You’ll prove to yourself that you can stick to your writing goals.
Tips to Successfully Complete a 30-Day Writing Challenge
Set a realistic daily goal.
In her book Write for Life, Julia Cameron recommends having a low daily quota, and I couldn’t agree more. If your daily writing goal is 300 words instead of 1,000, you’re much more likely to stick with it even when life gets busy.
Schedule your writing time.
Treat your writing sessions like appointments. Choose a consistent time that works for your lifestyle—early morning, during lunch, or before bed.
Create a cozy writing space.
Set up a spot that inspires you to write. Light a candle, grab your favorite mug, and make writing feel like a ritual, not a chore.
Write in the margins.
While having a cozy writing space is great, it’s also important to develop an “anytime, anyplace” attitude toward your writing. Be willing to write in the margins of your day. Write while you’re waiting in the pickup line of your child’s school or in the waiting room at the doctor’s office.
Use prompts for inspiration.
If you ever feel stuck, journaling prompts or creative writing exercises can help you push past writer’s block and keep the words flowing. During the See Jane Write November Writing Challenge, you’re free to write about whatever you’d like, but I will be providing daily prompts to keep your muse moving.
Celebrate your wins.
Every time you hit a milestone—like your first full week of writing daily or the first day you write 500 words instead of just 200—celebrate! Small rewards keep motivation high.
Ready to Join the Challenge?
If you’re ready to build a consistent writing habit, spark creativity, and finally make time for your words, join the See Jane Write November Writing Challenge. You’ll get support, community, and daily motivation to help you write your way to success. JOIN THE CHALLENGE HERE.